Château Troplong Mondot Saint-Emilion 2018 - 1er Grand Cru Classé B

Bettane & Desseauve

About the wine:

We were eager to see how this very early harvest would turn out… And we saw… Indeed, one cannot help but be captivated by the deep, mouth-watering nose. The velvety mouthfeel gives way to a refined, chalky texture that perfectly elongates the tannins, carrying the wine to a fresh, floral finish. Undoubtedly the greatest Troplong in the history of the 21st century.

About the estate:

Perched atop the Côte Pavie, this 27-hectare vineyard has suffered less from erosion than any other Saint-Émilion cru. The uniqueness of this contiguous terroir stems from this specific location, as well as its dense, heavy clays—originating from the Agen region—which are interspersed with stones and pebbles. Its former owner, Catherine Valette-Pariente, who passed away in 2014, had restored Troplong Mondot to its former glory; the estate was acquired in 2017 by the reinsurer Scor. The property was then entrusted to Aymeric de Gironde, who had been managing Cos d’Estournel, one of the Médoc’s most prominent classified growths. To help the wine gain nuance and freshness, this native of Charente modified the winemaking process upon his arrival: a gentler method based on the infusion of pomace and raw materials, along with a reduction in the use of new barrels, were the first adjustments made. To better showcase the vineyards, a new winery is under construction: with this new facility, we will be able to be more precise in all technical processes. It will also allow us to better highlight the latest land acquisitions, whether it be Clos Labarde or Bellisle-Mondotte, neighboring estates that will, for now, be included in the second wine. In 2020, as part of this new concept, the restaurant is set to reopen with the same Michelin-starred chef, David Charrier. The 2017 and 2018 vintages mark the arrival of a fresher, more accessible style.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

Troplong Mondot 2018 is a blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc, with an alcohol content of 15%. Deep garnet-purple in color, it slowly emerges from the glass, like a giant awakening, and unfolds an imposing bouquet of candied plums, blueberry tart, and sour cherries, with softer scents of violet, star anise, fruit cake, and cast-iron skillet. The concentrated and full-bodied palate displays impressive purity and liveliness of fruit, blended with richer, riper notes, supported by firm, velvety tannins. It finishes with lovely freshness and a lingering iron-like note. This wine is not only delicious, it is also very interesting. 2025–2050

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Following the passing of its owner, Christine Valette-Pariente, in 2014, Troplong-Mondot—which sits atop the most commanding vantage point in Saint-Émilion—seems to be facing an uncertain future. "Queen Christine," along with her husband Xavier, embodied the rebirth of this estate, which was confirmed in 2012 as a Premier Grand Cru B. A well-deserved distinction, first and foremost due to the terroir, but also to the work carried out by Christine and Xavier Pariente over more than twenty years. Every vintage produced since the late 1980s (1989 and 1990 in particular) has pushed the boundaries to demonstrate the excellence of this estate situated on the Mondot hill. A chapter has come to a close, one that has left its mark on the contemporary history of Saint-Emilion. It is worth noting that the château features an excellent restaurant in an intimate and refined setting, as well as magnificent guest rooms (Les Belles Perdrix).

Vinous

About the wine:

The 2018 Troplong Mondot will surprise readers who haven’t tasted these wines in a few years. With a stunning aromatic presence, the 2018 is silky, medium-bodied, and very refined. Once again, I am blown away by this wine’s absolute precision. Cabernets make up only 15% of the blend, and yet this 2018 is so strongly marked by floral and savory notes. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, mint, rose petal, and lavender unfold in the glass. This 2018 is majestic, refined, and absolutely exquisite. 2028–2043

James Suckling

About the wine:

This is a red wine that is both linear and complex, revealing aromas of blackberry, blueberry, black truffle, bark, and stone. It also features notes of chalk and minerality. It is full-bodied and well-structured, with magnificent intensity and freshness. Robust, it possesses remarkable structure and brilliance. The finish features savory, salty notes. Best enjoyed after 2024.

Yves Beck

About the wine:

The 2018 vintage reveals freshness, above all else! It sets the tone, so to speak, and quickly seeks to break free from everything we associate with 2018 (the heat, downy mildew, etc.). It follows its own path, opening with the freshness of red berries and even the scent of the garrigue! On the palate, the wine is dense yet slender; it’s a paradox, but the result is compelling because the muscle and tension channel the concentration. Ultimately, the wine is harmonious and ready to stand the test of time for decades to come. A great success. 2028–2053

The Wine Cellar Insider - Jeff Leve

About the wine:

Concentrated, full-bodied, deep, and opulent in texture, it displays great elegance and beautiful balance. It offers richness and power, but also a sense of harmony. Pure fruit and freshness are the hallmarks that define its character. This wine is destined to age for three decades and will be at its best after a decade of cellaring. The wine is a blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc.